Photo © Matt Graves
Claude Gordon
1916 - 1996
Without a doubt, Claude Gordon was one of the greatest brass pedagogues of
all time. A very large part of his success came from his relationship with
the Herbert L. Clarke, the legendary cornet virtuoso. Through the crucible
of the Great Depression, Claude honed his skills under the tutelage of this
great master to become one of the most successful studio trumpet players during
the days of live radio and TV broadcasts.
He spent many years in the Los Angeles movie and TV studios and gained a
reputation as "the trumpet player who never misses." He formed
his own big band which won the title "Best New Band In America" in the
late 1950's.
Claude was also a great private trumpet teacher and author. His six
brass method books and video tape series is a wonderful lasting legacy for brass
players and a testament to his genius as a teacher. These tools along with
his personal encouragement enabled many players to achieve there career dreams as
professional brass players in many live performance and recording genres.
Read The
Teaching Philosophy of Claude Gordon by Matt Graves.
Tracking down Claude's students is an on going task for me. I only
started doing this in 2000, four years after his death, and, as a matter of
historical record, I feel that it is very important to encourage as many of his
students as I can find to post their stories here. Unfortunately, some
teachers and players spread misinformation and downright myth and falsehood
about Claude, his teaching and writing. The stories posted here are from
players who studied with Claude face to face, not just by buying his books and
going it alone.
Additionally, it is my hope that this list will help trumpet students find teachers
in their area who studied with Claude and can teach his approach accurately and
responsibly. The student links below are listed with the years that the
students studied with Claude and their place of residence during that time.
As one of his grateful students, it has been my desire for some time to
present a testimony in his students' own words. Click here
for a list of Claude's students who have posted their stories.
Check out Fundamental Flexibility
Studies by Matt Graves
Copyright © 2000 - 2008 by Matt Graves
